A Guide to the Georgia Dentist Education Loan Repayment Program (GDELRP)
The application deadlines for Georgia’s dental student loan repayment programs are right around the corner. GDA staff have been working closely with the Board of Health Care Workforce (GBHCW) and the Dental College of Georgia to help students access funds in exchange for working in rural areas. The resources below will help students prepare for the application process.
Accessing GDELRP
Chet Bhasin and Jon Hoin discuss successfully applying for GDELRP funds
What is the Georgia Dentist Education Loan Repayment Program (GDELRP)?
The Georgia Dentist Education Loan Repayment Program (GDELRP) helps dental students and practicing dentists reduce their student debt by providing loan repayment assistance in exchange for working in rural areas of Georgia.
Who is eligible?
4th-year dental students and dentists already practicing in rural areas (defined as areas with populations < 50,000) can apply.
How much can you receive?
Up to $150,000 in service-cancelable loans over a 4-year period.
What are the program requirements?
To qualify, dentists must commit to working full-time in a rural area and treat Medicaid patients. Specifically, applicants must:
Provide full-time patient care in a rural area (populations under 50,000).
Treat Medicaid patients.
Commit to working at least 40 clinical hours per week.
How to apply
To apply for the GDELRP, you'll need to submit the following:
Disclosure of all outstanding dental education loan debt.
Executed copy of your employment contract.
If you are self-employed in private practice, submit any other agreements/contracts you have in place.
Contractual agreement to practice full-time (minimum of 40 clinical hours per week).
A notarized Affidavit of Lawful Presence in the U.S.
Ensure you have fulfilled any prior obligations with any federal, state, or other entities for health professional service before beginning service under this program.
For more details, review the full application requirements.
What’s the deadline to apply?
The deadline to apply has been extended to November 10, 2024.
How can I find jobs in rural areas?
The GDA offers resources to help connect you with opportunities in rural areas. Check out the GDA Job Board or fill out the online form to connect with GDA leadership in the location you're interested in.
How do I apply for GDELRP?
You can apply directly through the Board of Health Care Workforce’s website.
I have more questions!
For more information, contact the following:
Georgia Dental Association (GDA)
Mary B. | Membership Team
Email: maryb@gadental.org
Phone: (404) 636-7553
Kaitlyn M. | Membership Team
Email: kaitlyn@gadental.org
Phone: (404) 636-7553
Board of Health Care Workforce (BHCW)
Lauren Brenneman
Email: lauren.brenneman1@dch.ga.gov
Phone: (404) 463-1057
